Ariel HT5 500 vs Suzuki DR 500 S (1983)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Ariel HT5 500stacks up against the Suzuki DR 500 S. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecAriel HT5 500Suzuki DR 500 S
Model year19561983
Price
Engine497 cc498 cc
Horsepower25 hp27 hp
Weight132 kg
Fuel capacity2.4 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed5-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake
Tires2.75-21 / 4.00-19 3.00-21 / 4.60-18

Ariel HT5 500 vs Suzuki DR 500 S — which should you buy?

Picking between the Ariel HT5 500 and the Suzuki DR 500 S usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Ariel HT5 500 brings 25 hp in a 132 kg package, while the Suzuki DR 500 S counters with 27 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: